Can walking and deep breathing lift depression? new study investigates

NCT ID NCT07625163

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether aerobic exercise (like brisk walking) and mindful breathing can help adults with major depressive disorder feel better and improve their quality of life. Participants are split into three groups: one does 45 minutes of moderate exercise three times a week, another does 15 minutes of guided slow breathing, and a third receives standard care. The goal is to see if these activities reduce depression symptoms more than usual treatment alone.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

aerobic exercise and mindful breathing

What this could lead to

If effective, these simple, drug-free activities could offer a low-cost way to ease depression and improve daily life for people with MDD.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with 60 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The interventions require regular commitment, and not everyone may benefit.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Erada Hospital and Mental Health in Al Kharj

    Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Erada complex and Mental Health in Riyadh

    Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••